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Plantar Warts... How to
get rid of warts on the feet.

What Are Plantar Warts?

Warts are lesions which can occur on any part of your body. It is very common to find warts on the soles of the feet. These are often referred to as "plantar" or "pedal warts". Another term used to describe warts on the soles of the feet is "verrucae pedis".

They are generally well circumscribed lesions which can occur either as a single lesion or in a group. Multiple warts are sometimes referred to as "mosaic verrucae".

Unlike corns which tend to look quite similar, warts have no skin lines running through them, are usually painful to squeeze and often have small black dots in their centre which represent the blood vessels within the wart tissue.

What Causes Warts?

Plantar warts are caused by a virus. There are many different types of wart viruses, some more resistant than others.

The wart virus can be picked up in public showers, swimming centres and walking barefoot over infected areas. Warts tend to be very contagious so family members with plantar warts should take care to prevent the spread of infection.

How Do You Treat Plantar Warts?

People often ask how to get rid of warts on the feet and my reply is always the same. Treat the viral infection and the lesions themselves but don't forget to take steps to boost the immune system as well.

If you fail to boost the immune system then warts along with the virus are likely to return. Treatment often involves a combination of:

  • Chemical cautery (breakdown of the tissues with the application of strong chemicals) to the warty lesions. Single warts often require various treatment applications. Multiple warts may be more resistant and take longer to clear.
  • Wart patches and various paints may be prescribed by your Podiatrist for use between podiatry consultations.
  • Boost the immune system just as you do to fight cold and flu viruses. Vitamin and Mineral supplements may be recommended by your Podiatrist in conjunction with conventional therapy such as chemical cautery in an effort to assist the immune system in fighting the wart virus. Ensure your diet is rich in antioxidants and essential fatty acids. Talk to your doctor about what is right for you.
  • Prevention of re-infection. Wear "flip flops" or sandals in showers when visiting new locations, swimming or on vacation.

  • Laser is now available for very resistant warts that fail to respond to chemical cautery.

  • Always discontinue use of any treatment if pain occurs and consult your Podiatrist if you have any concerns.
  • If you have Diabetes, never use "over the counter medicaments" without prior consultation with your Podiatrist. WARNING : This information is for educational purposes only and is not intended to replace professional podiatric advice. Treatment will vary between individuals depending upon your diagnosis and presenting complaint. An accurate diagnosis can only be made following personal consultation with a Podiatrist, your Doctor or your foot specialist.

    • Still unsure about your problem? Visit our Foot Problems page and ask us a question about your specific problem. We'll do our best to help.

    Click on the following link for further information on foot pain and plantar warts.

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